by Jeffrey Grable
Flavas is one of the small percentage of black-owned and operated businesses in San Mateo County, featuring a diverse staff and authentic Jamaican cuisine. The vibe is real, and the food is great!
Leroy Davis brings Jamaican spice to South City
The restaurant, the brainchild of Owner Leroy Davis, serves as a testament to how dedication, vision, and knowledge changed his life, providing a roadmap for others to succeed. His craft in the culinary arts emerged early in life; however, he chose a career in the corporate world, where he gained experience in leadership, finance, and a foundation in conducting business internationally and ethically.
Built for success, Davis is a member of the South San Francisco Chamber of Commerce. Members enjoy networking opportunities, credibility, resources, representation in public policy, and the facilitation of community involvement. Davis mentioned, he “is appreciative of the support from his peers and enjoys participating in community events and yearly events with the South City Police Department.”
An unforgettable experience
Upon entering the restaurant, the atmosphere felt just like when I visited Jamaica. What I liked most was that I felt at home and welcomed. I noticed that the employees at the front of the restaurant were very attentive and did not waste time taking my order.
While soaking in the atmosphere as if I were on the beach, I couldn’t help but sing along to reggae and watch the flow of people come in and out of the restaurant. When my food arrived, the first thing I said was, “This is the real thing”. The presentation of food exceeded my expectations; the oxtails were tender and juicy, and the Jerked salmon was seasoned to perfection. The portions were large, and I could not finish my plate, so I leaned back and looked at the art on the wall.
A picture and lyrics of the legendary Bob Marley grace the wall that reads, “If you know your history, then you know where you’re coming from. Stolen from Africa, brought to America, driven from the mainland to the heart of the Caribbean. Troddin’ thru Jamaica, A Buffalo Soldier.” These words of a legend are a true testament of culture and run deep with meaning.
Jamaican cuisine in South City for more than a decade
Flavas has been in the same location since 2014, and is a great stop when traveling on the 101 Highway. Social stops are an excellent way to discover and experience different cultures through cuisine and are part of a trend among people in the Bay who are looking to add spice to their routine. This gem is not hard to find, just minutes away from the freeway.
Cleanliness is the number one priority, according to one of the associates. Also, the restaurant considers it a priority and necessity to ensure customers are treated with respect, and they want everyone who enters to have the best experience of Jamaican culture and cuisine.
South City is an excellent fit for Flavas. A multi-cultural and tight-knit community with a rich history and bright future that is destined to show the world how people are different but truly know how to stand together for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Visit at: 314 Linden Ave, South San Francisco, CA. 94080.
Jeffrey Grable is a business management major at San Mateo County Community College District. He is a military veteran. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family, tailgating, and smoking BBQ ribs and chicken. He is our newest intern as part of our Belle Haven Action and San Francisco Bay View Newspaper internship partnership launched last spring. He can be contacted at jbiznetwork25@gmail.com
